Issue Date: February 15, 2009
Sister's sins aren't hers
My sister ran away from home with her boyfriend when she was 16 (she's 20 now), and she has caused nothing but trouble ever since. I'm nothing like my sister -- I get good grades, and I never get in trouble. Still, my parents won't let me date or go out with my friends. I'm 16, and my only social life is under my parents' supervision at home! How do I get my parents to loosen up a bit and let me have a life?
K.S., New Jersey
Be responsible about calling and meeting curfews, and you may get more freedom.
|
Persuading your parents to give you some freedom is go-ing to take a little patience and a lot of maturity. Think small steps: Talk to them, acknowledge that you understand why they are so protective, and remind them of how you and your sister differ. Then, propose a "test" -- a night out at the movies with a friend, with the conditions that a) your friend meets your parents first, and b) you'll call them when you arrive at the movie and before you head home.
Once your parents see that you're responsible about calling and meeting conditions and curfews, they'll slowly give you more freedom. But be prepared: They may not take you up on your idea the first time you propose it. Don't give up, though -- and don't get mad. Give them some time to give you a chance.
Want to know more about parenting troubled teens? Click here.
|
